Planescape: Torment
Release Date: December 10, 1999
RPG, isometric view, Dungeons & Dragons, classic RPG, singleplayer
Steam
A classical isometric cRPG based on the rules of the 2nd edition of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. It was developed by Black Isle Studios, the creators of the Fallout series. The action of Planescape: Torment starts in the Mortuary in the city of Sigil, known also as the City of Doors due to countless portals present therein.
Planescape: Torment for PC is powered by Baldur’s Gate’s engine and at first glance resembles it very much, but this impression is misleading. Technically, both productions utilize Advanced Dungeons & Dragons rules, but the worlds in which the action takes place are completely different. In Baldur’s Gate, it is the universe of Forgotten Realms, very well-known to cRPG players, with its honorable paladins, agile elves and evil orcs. Planescape, however, is something else entirely, and its rules are so complex that before the release of Torment, people thought that it would be impossible to make a video game adaptation of this system.
Generally speaking, one could say that there are no absolute rules in this world, because they are breakable or avoidable if one knows how to do it. Planescape is a multiverse of parallel worlds (Forgotten Realms being one of them) connected through portals, most of which lead to Sigil, the City of Doors. This is where the story of Planescape: Torment starts; to be more precise - in the Mortuary. This is also where the first surprise awaits us, as our protagonist is no handsome warrior or old mage to which we are used. He rather resembles something in between Dr. Frankenstein's monster and a zombie. To make matters worse, he is amnesiac.
This isn't the last surprise waiting for us. It turns out that the protagonist is immortal. That which ends other people’s lives can be a way to make progress in the story of our hero. His class is not predetermined either, as he can become a warrior, mage or a thief; later it is also possible to switch between classes at will. The companions are unusual too, to say the least. For example, a talking skull fighting with its teeth and a charming thief with a rather long tail. Planescape: Torment for PC is a must-have for all fans of RPGs and brilliant stories in general.
Last updated on August 14, 2015
Videos and Screens
The main pros of the game
- Exceptional Writing and Storytelling: Many reviews highlight the game's writing as among the best in gaming history, with deep philosophical themes and rich character development.
- Unique Setting: The game is set in the exotic and dark fantasy city of Sigil, which is praised for its immersive world-building and atmospheric locations.
- Engaging Characters: Players appreciate the diverse and memorable companions and NPCs, adding depth to the narrative experience.
- Innovative Gameplay Elements: The game offers a unique approach to quests and dialogue, allowing for multiple choices and outcomes based on player decisions.
- Rich Lore and Quests: Users mention a plethora of quests, factions, and secrets that contribute to a sense of exploration and discovery.
The main cons of the game
- Combat System Issues: Many reviews point out that the combat is simplistic, unbalanced, and can become tedious, especially in the game's second half where fighting becomes more frequent.
- Dated Mechanics: Some players note that the gameplay feels outdated, reflecting its 1999 origins, which may deter new players accustomed to modern mechanics.
- Visual and Technical Limitations: While some appreciate the remaster, others mention that the graphics can feel old and that certain technical aspects (like UI scaling) could be improved.
- Gloomy Atmosphere: The game's dark and often depressing aesthetic does not appeal to everyone, with some players finding it uninviting.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Character Customization: Players expressed disappointment over the inability to choose the character's gender, feeling it limits role-playing opportunities.
- More Varied Environments: Some users wished for more visual diversity in locations, as many places felt repetitive and dreary.
- Improved Combat Mechanics: A desire for a more engaging and balanced combat system was common, with calls for updates to make it more enjoyable.
- Better Guidance and Clarity: Some players found the game lacking in clear direction, making it difficult to navigate or understand objectives at times.
Summary
- Overall, while Planescape: Torment: Enhanced Edition is celebrated for its storytelling and world-building, it faces critiques regarding its combat and dated mechanics, along with some desires for deeper customization and visual variety.
Summary generated on:
GAMERS Score
Average score from 14627 votes.
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Planescape: Torment Summary
Platforms:
PC / Windows
Developer: Black Isle Studios
Publisher: Interplay Entertainment
Planescape: Torment System Requirements
PC / Windows
Recommended: Processor Pentium 266 MHz (or compatible), 64 MB RAM, 4MB graphic card compatible with DirectX, Windows 95/98
RPG Classic Planescape Torment Began as Three Different Games. Feargus Urquhart Reveals Details About One of Them
The developer of Planescape: Torment gave a little insight into one of the three projects that eventually turned into the cult RPG.
video games
Martin Bukowski
October 7, 2024
Planescape Torment: Enhanced Edition has launched
Would you like to go back to the good old Planescape Torment, but in 4K? Now you can, thanks to Beamdog's Planescape Torment: Enhanced Edition, available on PC, iOS, and Android.
video games
April 12, 2017